A Ghost Story (2017), directed by David Lowery, is a mesmerizing drama that defies expectations, offering a slow-burn meditation on time, memory, and the permanence of love. Far from a traditional horror movie despite its title, this indie film starring Casey Affleck and Rooney Mara is a hauntingly beautiful exploration of loss and existence. With its minimalist storytelling and profound visuals, A Ghost Story is a cinematic gem for those who embrace its esoteric rhythm. In this movie review, we delve into the film’s strengths, nuances, and why it’s a must-watch for fans of thought-provoking cinema.
Plot Overview: A Ghost’s Timeless Journey
A Ghost Story begins with a young couple, known only as C (Casey Affleck) and M (Rooney Mara), living in a modest suburban home filled with gentle intimacy. Their quiet life is shattered when C dies in a car accident, leaving M to grapple with grief. Soon after, C returns as a ghost, depicted as a simple white sheet with black eyeholes—a striking yet poignant image. Unable to move on, the ghost lingers in the house, silently observing M’s mourning and the passage of time.
David Lowery manipulates time masterfully, as moments stretch into years, and the ghost witnesses the house change hands, new lives unfold, and the world transform. From the 19th century to a distant future, the narrative spans eras, exploring how places and memories carry the weight of love and loss. The ghost’s silent vigil becomes a meditation on existence, searching for meaning in a life that no longer belongs to him.
Strengths: What Makes A Ghost Story Unforgettable
Haunting Visual Storytelling
A Ghost Story is a visual poem, with David Lowery’s direction creating a meditative atmosphere through long, unbroken shots and minimalist framing. The film’s cinematography, shot in a 4:3 aspect ratio with rounded corners, evokes a sense of nostalgia and confinement, mirroring the ghost’s perspective. Iconic scenes, like M’s pie-eating sequence—a raw, five-minute depiction of grief—or sweeping glimpses of cosmic time, leave a lasting impact. Critics have praised its “eerie stillness and cosmic wonder,” making it a standout indie drama.
